Russian Embassy hosts launch of Pakistani journalist’s book

ISLAMABAD: The Russian Embassy in Pakistan hosted the launch of The Ukraine War: Beyond the Headlines, a book by Pakistani journalist and analyst Munir Ahmed, on October 29.

The event brought together diplomats, politicians, former military officials, academics and media representatives to discuss the conflict in Ukraine and the international developments surrounding it.

The speakers included Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev, Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, former Pakistani ambassador Masood Khan, former Inter-Services Intelligence chief Lieutenant General (retd) Asad Durrani, Dr Almas Haider Naqvi and Dr Gul-i-Ayesha Bhatti.

In his opening address, Ambassador Khorev praised the author for examining issues that, in his view, receive limited attention in mainstream Western coverage. He highlighted the book’s use of official documents and data from the United Nations and other international organisations.

Khorev said the publication explored the historical and political factors behind the Ukraine conflict, particularly NATO’s eastward expansion and its implications for Russia’s security. He also criticised Western sanctions, arguing that they had affected global food and energy security.

The ambassador maintained that Russia’s stated objectives included protecting its security interests and Russian-speaking communities. He said Moscow remained open to dialogue, but any peace agreement should take account of the security concerns of all parties and conditions on the ground.

Khorev also thanked Pakistan’s leadership for maintaining a neutral position on the conflict and expressed Russia’s willingness to expand cooperation with Islamabad across different sectors.

Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed described relations with Russia as an important part of Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities. He criticised Western approaches towards Moscow and said they had contributed to wider international tensions.

Former ambassador Masood Khan welcomed the book and called for an early resolution to the conflict. He also highlighted the potential for stronger Pakistan-Russia cooperation in economic and humanitarian fields, stressing the importance of strategic stability between Russia and the United States.

Lieutenant General (retd) Asad Durrani discussed the historical background of Russia’s relations with Western countries, focusing on NATO’s expansion and Moscow’s response.

Academic speakers also examined how the conflict has been presented in international media. Dr Almas Haider Naqvi raised concerns about what he described as one-sided Western media coverage, while Dr Gul-i-Ayesha Bhatti pointed to a shortage of English-language academic material presenting Russia’s perspective.

Bhatti said the book aimed to provide a broader account of the conflict rather than presenting it through a single narrative.

The publication offers the author’s interpretation of the political and historical factors behind the war. Its arguments and perspectives were discussed by speakers during the event.

The book is expected to be available in bookstores across Pakistan. Readers can also purchase it online through Amazon.